A Student’s Guide to Starting University on the Right Path

Starting university is a huge milestone in your life. It’s a time that presents many exciting opportunities and new experiences to enjoy, which can make for a very rewarding few years, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges.

In this article, we’ll walk alongside you and give you the tips you need to succeed as a student.

Embrace Learning Opportunities

Education is all about how you approach it, and that’s what shapes the result of your degree. Yes, there’s self-discipline involved when it comes to hitting the books, but learning can also be fun.

Actively take part in your lectures and seminars, don’t be afraid to raise your hand and ask questions! It can be scary, but your future self (and maybe even other students) will thank you. Finding effective study techniques that work for you will also be important, joining a study group and having the support of others is helpful. Revising with friends in a relaxed setting is often more enjoyable and helps ease the pressure.

Don’t force yourself to do too much at once. Break down large tasks into smaller ones and stick to a regular study schedule. Little by little is the way to go, or you’ll become stressed, and face burn out.

Look After Your Wellbeing

Your health, both physical and mental, is key to your academic success. Maintain a balanced lifestyle and practise self-care to see the positive impact it’ll have on your daily mood.

Exercise: Don’t underestimate the positive power of endorphins for your mental health. This doesn’t mean you have to join a gym or run a marathon to feel the benefits of exercise, but taking a long walk after class or following a yoga video online can also help you feel good about yourself.

Try and get outside in the fresh air to stretch and move your body as often as possible. Student life can get busy but you should try and say yes to that game of tennis or parkrun as often as possible because you’ll feel so much better for it.

Diet: Takeaways and alcohol are the typical things that spring to mind when you think of a student diet. Although they can both be good in moderation, using them to excess can take a toll on your wellbeing.

Stock up on some cupboard staples and fresh produce from the supermarket. The attraction of a greasy pizza is always there, but if you already have meals planned for the week, you’re less likely to order out. Suggest cooking with your housemates, and take turns to plate up a group dinner, or even breakfast. It’s not only fun, but cheaper and much healthier!

Sleep: Using your brain is tiring. Rest is important for everyone, students included. Aim for at least 7 hours a night to make sure you’re waking up fresh and ready for the day ahead. Install a regular night and morning routine to avoid wasting your weekend’s catching up on z’s.

If you’re struggling and need someone to turn to, universities offer a variety of support services. From academic counselling to mental health resources, be sure to seek help when you need it.

Being Social: Leaving your best friends at home can be a lonely experience. If you’re not willing to branch out and socialise you can get homesick very quick. For many of us, we’ve spent our whole lives surrounded by the same people and familiar faces. Now’s the time to expand your friendship circle and meet new people from all walks of life (how exciting!)

Feel confident introducing yourself to as many people as you can. Start with housemates and classmates first, then start looking elsewhere. Sign up to sports teams and societies to share your hobbies and interests with others. This is an easy way to make friends as you already have something in common and a topic ready to chat about.

Make sure to check out your Student Union for the latest events and opportunities to volunteer in extra-curricular activities. It’s important to use your free time to socialise as well as study and strike that perfect balance. You never know, these new relationships could turn into lifelong friendships or even open doors to future career prospects.

Think of university as a time to shape who you are right now, and who you’re going to be in a few years’ time. Don’t forget to look after yourself and appreciate new friendships while you work towards your dream career. Being a student’s great, so we encourage you to make the most of it!